Licences and Permits

Depending on your business, you may need specific licences, such as a:

• Business Licence
• Informal Trading Permit
• Liquor Licence
• Public Transport Operator's Permit
• Tourist Guide Registration

BUSINESS LICENCES

If you run a business that makes or sells food, or povides health or entertainment services (for example businesses offering saunas, massages, snooker, billiards, slot machines, night clubs, and cinemas), then you need to get a business licence from your local municipality. Get detailed information on getting a business licence or read a summary of the relevant legislation.

Relevant legislation:

• Businesses Act
  (Acts prior to 1993 are not available online but hard copies can be obtained from the Government Printer)

INFORMAL TRADING PERMITS

Informal traders need to get permits from their local municipalities. Get more information on how to get an informal trading permit.

LIQUOR LICENCES

If your business plans to sell, manufacture or distribute liquor, you must first get a licence. Read more about applying for a liquor licence.

Relevant legislation:

• Liquor Act, 27 of 1989 (Provincial)
• Liquor Act, 59 of 2003 (National)

PUBLIC TRANSPORT OPERATOR'S PERMIT

If your business involves transporting passengers for gain, then you need to have a permit which can be obtained from the Provincial Operating Licence Board. Get more information on applying for a public transport operators permit.

TOURIST GUIDE REGISTRATION

If you want to work as a tourist guide in the Western Cape, you need to be registered with the provincial Tourist Guide Office. Find out more about registering as a tourist guide.